BURLINGTON, V.T. – The Iona University women's lacrosse team dropped an 8–5 decision to Vermont in a Tuesday morning matchup at Virtue Field. The Catamounts used a dominant opening quarter to build a lead the Gaels could not fully erase, despite a strong push over the final two periods.

GAME SUMMARY

Vermont set the tone early, scoring six goals in the first quarter to take immediate control. Iona's defense regrouped behind goalkeeper Lauren Sweeney, holding the Catamounts scoreless for nearly 30 minutes spanning the second and third quarters.

The Gaels got on the board midway through the second quarter when Jocelyn Smith finished an assist from Kacie Scarduzio.

Iona continued its comeback bid in the third, as Calen Norton and Smith each netted unassisted goals to cut the deficit to 7–3 entering the final frame.

In the fourth quarter, Brie Gaccino added a goal to keep the pressure on before Scarduzio converted on a woman-up opportunity with one second remaining to close the scoring at 8–5.

NOTABLE NUGGETS

Jocelyn Smith

• 2 Goals
• 1 Assist
• 3 Points (team high)

Calen Norton

• 1 Goal
• 4 Ground Balls
• 4 Draw Controls (team high)

Kacie Scarduzio

• 1 Goal
• 1 Assist
• 1 Draw Control

Lauren Sweeney

• 8 Saves
• 60:00 Minutes Played

Iona held advantages in ground balls and matched Vermont closely in total shots, but the Catamounts' six-goal first quarter proved to be the difference.

UP NEXT

The Gaels return to action on Friday, February 20, hosting the Lehigh Mountain Hawks for a 2 pm start time at Mazzella Field.